ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – Michigan legislators visited Bay College for a legislative luncheon to discuss the institution’s goals.
On Friday, President Dr. Nerita Hughes and other Bay College administrators met with State Senator Ed McBroom, Representatives Jenn Hill, Dave Prestin, and Greg Markkanen, as well as representatives from Senator Gary Peters’ and Debbie Stabenow’s offices.
The group discussed legislative priorities for community colleges and what Governor Whitmer’s free tuition proposal could look like for Bay. Dr. Hughes outlined needed building and facility improvements and the possibility of developing a multicultural center.
One of Dr. Hughes’ priorities is constructing additional dorms. Bay College currently uses the nearby Super 8 as overflow housing.
“Right now, we have about 17,” she told the legislators. “We had to increase it. Imagine, you know, you went off to college and you were excited about dorms and then you learn, ‘Oh, wait a minute. I’m going to be in a hotel.’ We know that if we want to grow our enrollment, then we’re going to have to also look at growing housing.”
According to Dr. Hughes, the dorm project would cost approximately $6.1 million. Bay College is seeking a $4.7 million USDA loan to help fund the expansion. Legislators and representatives gave Dr. Hughes feedback on various funding opportunities available to community colleges.
